N
orthwest Suburban High School District 214 is putting its nearly 6.5-acre property at 2123 S. Arlington Heights Road in Arlington Heights up for sale, seeking a minimum of $5.5 million. The site features a vacant two-story building that was once the headquarters of Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59 and served as temporary offices for District 214 before its staff returned to Forest View Educational Center over a year ago.

    The district is facing significant renovation costs across its six aging high schools, with projected expenses totaling nearly $900 million. School board member Joe Sagerer argues that holding onto the property is unnecessary when funds are needed immediately for ongoing projects. "We're not in the real estate investment business," he said. "Holding onto this asset while we have investments to make now is a delayed opportunity."

    The district has attempted to sell the property before, with Chicago developer Bradford Allen submitting a $5.45 million bid last November that fell short of approval due to a lack of votes from a full board. Board member Bill Dussling remains opposed to selling, believing the site's value will increase as nearby properties are redeveloped. However, other board members argue that maintaining an empty building is costly, with annual expenses totaling $90,000 in utilities and maintenance.

    The district must conduct the sale within 60 days and provide public notice for three consecutive weeks. The winning bid could be approved as early as August 21.